Brenda Noel
2021 Candidate for Ward Councilor, Ward 6
Campaign Website: https://brendafornewton.com
Biographical statementBrenda has an MSW from Boston University and has worked for over 25 years in mission driven organizations, most recently she has served as the Executive Director of a Newton organization, Pathway To Possible. She has lived in Newton Highlands for 11 years with her husband, twin daughters and 2 dogs.
Questions and Answers
Question 1: What in your background prepares you to be effective in the political office you are seeking?
I was elected to the Newton City Council in 2017. Through my experience as a social worker and my dedication to ensuring government improves the lives of my constituents I am uniquely qualified to serve in this role. My work as Ward 6 Councilor includes making a difference in the daily lives of Newton residents and businesses. Examples include:
-pushing to provide funding so the Newton Public Schools can operate safely,
-getting crosswalks and safety lights installed so our city is safer for walking and biking,
-advocating for policy changes for expanded outdoor dining so our local restaurants can stay in business.
Question 2: If you're elected, what will be your first priority? Why? How will you address your priority?
The pandemic has deeply impacted our city in a myriad of ways- our small businesses and restaurants struggled, our schools suffered, and the pandemic further highlighted our underfunded infrastructure — specifically roads, sidewalks and fields.
Our quality of life is affected not only by fundamental infrastructure issues, but also by the ways we demonstrate our commitment to our collective core values and long-term goals such as climate change, income equality, transportation, and sustainable housing.
The City Council is charged with addressing all these things – and I am committed to continuing to advocate for what matters most.
Question 3: How will you make your decision to vote on a proposal that positively affects Newton overall but seems less so for all or part of your ward?
Throughout my tenure as a Ward 6 Councilor I have been committed to transparency and constant communication with my constituents. I can think of no example of a situation that has not been advantageous for the Ward and the City. And the reverse has been true as well- what is bad for Ward 6 tends to be bad for the City. My Ward cares deeply about everyday quality of life issues such as roads, streets and sidewalks for which I advocate for and deliver, and has a demonstrated commitment to the larger issues such as traffic flow/transportation, climate change and housing. I am grateful for the level of engagement from my Ward 6 constituents.